It’s been quite a week in the Bayou City. Houston hosted World Baseball Classic games (did y’all spot Italy’s dugout espresso machine?), and the Rodeo even had a political moment thanks to a contentious appearance by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.

Never a dull moment in Houston.

Before we get into it, a quick introduction: I’m Paula Solis, and I’ll be writing your weekly newsletter as we prepare for some exciting changes.

I’m a 713 number, Dr Pepper drinker, Blue Bell fan who always roots, roots, roots for the Astros—in other words, I’m Houston born and raised. 🤘

Keep tuning in for the stories shaping Houston, a few things around town that caught our eye, and the context you need to keep up with what’s happening in the Space City. Let’s get into it.

Paula Solis
Deputy Director of Newsletters

If this headline looks familiar, that’s because it is. School closures have become a recurring story across the Houston area as districts grapple with shrinking enrollment, aging campuses, and tightening budgets.

Houston political correspondent ShaVonne Herndon reports that three major districts are moving forward with a new round. Houston ISD plans to close 12 campuses at the end of the school year, reversing earlier assurances that schools would remain open through 2026–27.

In Fort Bend, trustees narrowly voted to close seven elementary schools to address a growing deficit. And in Aldine, the district approved multiple closures after losing thousands of students over the past decade.

District leaders say the moves reflect hard math: fewer students, rising maintenance costs, and long-term funding pressures. But parents, teachers, and students say the closures will reshape neighborhoods and dismantle school communities that have long served as anchors for families across the region.

🐝 This new Houston Rodeo food stall is Beyoncé-approved. Courier HTX

Mama Tina—yes, as in Tina Knowles, mother to Houston legends Beyoncé and Solange Knowles—has been out at the Rodeo, serving up gumbo and taking pictures with fans. Expect long lines at her stall, so you’d better show up early (and hungry).

🛑 Texas court blocks Ken Paxton challenge to Harris County immigration fund. Courier HTX

“A Texas court blocked Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to stop Harris County’s immigrant legal aid funding because the money was already spent. Now the fight heads to the Texas Supreme Court, where the stakes get even higher.”

🤠 Drag King Juecee saddles up for Out at the Rodeo. OutSmart Magazine

Juecee, resident show host and producer of Wednesday night’s King-Sized HTX at Pearl, will channel his inner cowboy for the annual “Out at the Rodeo” night.

🛢️ Texas oil companies stand to profit from Iran war. Texas Tribune

“While Texas’ position as the nation’s leading oil and gas producer insulates Texans from the steepest price hikes, drivers should expect to pay more at the pump the longer the war continues, experts said, especially during the summer travel season when gas consumption rises.”

🚕 Flying taxis could soon come to Houston. Houston Chronicle

Texas is known for its massive highways, but urban air taxi services could soon steal the show. I’m still mastering the merge, so I’ll stick with good old-fashioned traffic down here on the ground.

We’re starting Friday on the chilly side before a warm-up this weekend. If you’re planning to get out and enjoy the mostly nice weather, we’re keeping you in the loop on things to do around the city.

Know of something coming up you want to see in our roundup? Hit reply and let us know so we can add your event next week.

World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals Game 1

Friday, Downtown

Adulti-Verse: TUTS x “Back to the Future: The Musical”

Friday, Greater Fifth Ward

Screen on the Green: “How to Train Your Dragon”

Friday, Downtown

Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival

Friday-Saturday, Nassau Bay

Rodeo Fun at River Oaks District

Saturday, River Oaks

Kids Art Workshop

Saturday, Missouri City

Junk Journaling w/ Sam

Saturday, Richmond

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Paula Solis and edited by Kimberly Lawson.

Courier HTX is free to read for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.